Smoking

Definition

Smoking refers to the act of inhaling and exhaling the smoke of burning substances, typically tobacco in cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. It can also describe the process of exposing something to smoke for preservation or flavor, such as smoking meat or fish.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (present participle of "smoke")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsmoʊ.kɪŋ/
• Respelling: SMOH-king

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsməʊ.kɪŋ/
• Respelling: SMOH-king

Etymology

The word "smoking" originates from the verb "smoke," derived from the Old English "smoca," meaning "emission of fumes or vapor." The addition of the suffix "-ing" in Middle English formed the noun and participle.

Derivatives

• Smoker (noun)
• Smokehouse (noun)
• Smoking cessation (noun phrase)
• Smoking jacket (noun)
• Secondhand smoke (noun phrase)

Synonyms

• Inhaling
• Burning
• Vaping (context-specific)

Antonyms

• Abstaining
• Non-smoking
• Quitting

Usage

The term "smoking" is commonly associated with tobacco use and health-related discussions. For example, "Smoking is prohibited in public places in many countries." It is also used in culinary contexts, such as "Smoking salmon adds a rich flavor."

Related Terms

• Nicotine: A chemical compound found in tobacco.
• Cigarette: A rolled paper cylinder filled with tobacco for smoking.
• Pipe: A device used for smoking substances like tobacco.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of inhaling and exhaling smoke: Refers to consuming substances like tobacco by burning them and inhaling the smoke.
  • Example: "Smoking is a leading cause of preventable diseases worldwide."
• The process of exposing food to smoke: Used in culinary practices for preserving or flavoring food.
  • Example: "Smoking meats is a traditional method of preservation."

Verb

• Inhaling and exhaling smoke: The present participle form of "smoke," referring to the act of smoking.
  • Example: "She was smoking a cigar at the party."
• Exposing to smoke: Refers to the act of treating food or other items with smoke.
  • Example: "They are smoking the fish over an open fire."